Why Canberra is worth a visit
Canberra was designed to be a city unlike any other. Australia’s national capital is modern, engaging and beautiful.It is common to see wildlife, including kangaroos, within suburban areas.
Home to 12 of Australia’s most iconic cultural attractions, museums and galleries.
Known for four distinct seasons of colour and wonder.
More than half of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is made up of natural conservation areas and national parks.
Spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, breweries and cool-climate wineries.
Regularly ranked as one of the best cities in which to live (and visit).
A multicultural town, with almost a third of Canberra’s population being born overseas.
Only hours from coastal towns, snowfields and other major Australian cities.
The capital of Australia
Designed by American architects Walter and Marion Burley Griffin in the early 1900s as part of an international competition, Canberra is a capital city planned within the surrounding hills and valleys. It is one of the only places in the world where visitors can watch democracy in action at Australian Parliament House, fly in a hot air balloon over all parts of the city, and explore Australia’s cultural story through art, sculpture, books, film, objects and artefacts. Canberra is home to some of Australia’s most prestigious cultural attractions.
A natural wonder
Many locals call Canberra the ‘bush capital’, embracing its slower pace and enviable lifestyle. Surrounded by bush, nature parks and protected areas, the environment is easy to access and explore. It’s common to see native Australian wildlife – especially kangaroos – in and around the city and suburbs. Visitors can discover waterfalls, gorges, rivers, lookouts and snow-capped mountains. Many nature reserves and Namadgi National Park feature distinctive native Australian flora and fauna. Extensive walking tracks and riding trails are available to reach the best spots (including guided tours), or enter natural wonderlands within the city at the National Arboretum Canberra and the Australian National Botanic Gardens.
Something for everyone
From family fun to romantic getaways, the variety on offer in Canberra will surprise. Families can explore parks, playgrounds and picnic spots, or visit one of many kid-friendly attractions to defy gravity, hold a reptile, chat with a monkey, ride a train or make a coin. For solo or couple travellers, there are special stays ‘off the grid’, local artisan markets to explore, art and culture to appreciate, and nightlife to enjoy. Many options appeal to everyone, like behind-the-scenes tours, seasonal dining, or simply gazing at the clear, starry night skies.
Delicious food and wine
Canberra’s food and wine scene is recognised for its considered use of fresh, local produce combined with inspiration from the world’s cuisines. Dining options cover awarded restaurants to casual eateries and everything in between. There are restaurants, cafes and breweries that can fit effortlessly into any itinerary. The region is home to 140 vineyards and more than 50 boutique wineries within 35 minutes’ drive of Canberra’s city centre. For something extra special, visitors can try unearthing premium black truffles with specially trained truffle-hunting dogs in winter.
Calendar of events
Events breathe even more life into the capital. There is a calendar of fun, entertaining and family-friendly activities and festivals that offer something for all interests. In March, the Enlighten Festival illuminates autumn and it is when Canberra celebrates its birthday. In September and October, glorious Floriade showcases the vibrancy of spring. Some of the nation’s major exhibitions arrive in summer, along with car festivals. Throughout the year, Canberra hosts many sporting events for cricket, rugby league, rugby union, tennis and Australian Football League (AFL).
Hotel tips
As the seat of government, Parliament is in session in Canberra approximately 70 days per year. During these times, hotels have a high occupancy from Monday to Thursday. Adding Canberra to an itinerary works well over a weekend to take advantage of the lower weekend hotel rates compared to other Australian capital cities.
Explore the region
Canberra’s location makes it a perfect destination as part of a Sydney or Melbourne itinerary. Whether flying or self-driving, Canberra is as an ideal stop-over for a few days or longer. Given its proximity to beaches and mountains, it serves as a gateway to the stunning south coast and Snowy Mountains, which are both about 2 ½ hours’ drive away. Within Canberra’s region are lovely country towns with their own charm and history, including Murrumbateman, Yass, Collector, Goulburn and Bungendore.